Interview Like Yourself… No, Really!: Follow Your Strengths and Skills to get the Job

"Interview Like Yourself...No, Really!: Follow Your Strengths and Skills to Get the Job" by Jezra Kaye is a practical guide to interviewing that explains the importance of being true to oneself and leveraging one's unique strengths and skills to stand out from the competition. 

The book begins with an overview of the interviewing process, providing tips on how to research the company, understand the job requirements, and prepare for the interview. Kaye emphasizes the importance of being well-informed about the company and the position and offers advice on how to use this information to tailor your responses and demonstrate your qualifications. 

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of being authentic and true to oneself during the interview process. Kaye argues that candidates should focus on their strengths and skills, rather than trying to fit a certain mould or mimic someone else's style. She provides practical tips for conveying authenticity, such as using personal stories and examples to illustrate points and suggests that candidates should approach the interview as a conversation, rather than a performance. 

Throughout the book, Kaye offers practical tips and strategies for answering common interview questions. She provides examples of strong responses and offers guidance on how to structure your responses using the CAR (Challenge, Action, Result) method. She also provides advice on how to handle difficult or unexpected questions, such as behavioural or situational questions, and offers tips for staying calm and composed during the interview. 

Another important theme of the book is the importance of non-verbal communication during the interview. Kaye provides practical advice on how to use body language to convey confidence and competence, including tips on how to sit, stand, and make eye contact. She also offers guidance on how to dress appropriately for the interview and provides examples of appropriate attire for different types of interviews and industries. 

In addition to practical tips and strategies, "Interview Like Yourself" also includes real-life examples and anecdotes from Kaye's experience as a communication coach and trainer. She shares insights from her time working with clients, highlighting common mistakes that candidates make during the interview process and offering advice on how to avoid them. 

Overall, "Interview Like Yourself" is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their interviewing skills and land their dream job. Kaye's emphasis on authenticity and leveraging one's unique strengths and skills, combined with practical tips and strategies, make this book a comprehensive guide to succeeding in interviews. Whether you are a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, this book provides actionable advice that can help you stand out from the competition and land the job you want. 

The 5 key takeaways from this book 

1. Embrace Authenticity: The book emphasizes the importance of being true to yourself during interviews. Rather than trying to be someone you think the interviewer wants, focus on showcasing your genuine strengths, skills, and personality. Authenticity helps you build rapport and establish a connection with the interviewer. 

2. Understand Your Unique Value Proposition: Kaye encourages readers to identify their unique value proposition—the specific skills, experiences, and qualities that set them apart from other candidates. By understanding and articulating what makes you unique, you can effectively communicate your value to the employer and stand out from the competition. 

3. Craft Compelling Stories: The book emphasizes the power of storytelling in interviews. Instead of just listing your qualifications, use stories and examples to illustrate your skills and accomplishments. Engaging narratives create a memorable impression and help interviewers understand your capabilities in a more relatable and impactful way. 

4. Preparation and Research: Kaye stresses the importance of thorough preparation before interviews. Research the company, its culture, and the role you're applying for. Prepare thoughtful questions to demonstrate your interest and understanding of the organisation. Being well-prepared not only boosts your confidence but also shows your dedication and commitment to the opportunity. 

5. Practice and Refine: The book emphasizes the value of practicing your interview responses and refining your delivery. Kaye encourages readers to anticipate common interview questions, rehearse their answers, and seek feedback from others. Practicing helps you refine your responses, improve your delivery, and become more comfortable in the interview setting.